Iron Forging Museum

The Iron Forging Museum in Kropa is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Slovenia’s industrial heritage and the artistry of traditional blacksmithing. Established in 1952 as the country’s first technical museum in situ, the museum is located in the heart of Kropa—a town renowned since the 15th century as a center of manual iron forging. Here, generations of skilled craftsmen produced nails and wrought ironwork that were exported across Europe, shaping both the local economy and the town’s unique identity.

Inside the museum, visitors can explore a fascinating collection of tools, models, and finished products that trace the entire ironworking process, from the extraction of ore to the creation of intricate nails and decorative pieces. Demonstrations and interactive displays bring the blacksmith’s craft to life, allowing guests to witness the sparks and rhythm of hammer on anvil. The museum also highlights the social history of Kropa, with exhibits on the daily lives of ironworkers and their families.

The museum is housed in a beautifully preserved building, and nearby, the Fovšaritnica Museum House offers further insight into the living and working conditions of Kropa’s blacksmiths. Strolling through the old town, you’ll see historic forges and ironworker houses that echo the town’s storied past.

A visit to the Iron Forging Museum in Kropa is a journey into the heart of Slovenia’s technical and artistic traditions, making it a rewarding stop for history buffs, families, and curious travelers alike.